24-Hour Electroencephalogram (EEG)
A 24-hour EEG measures the brain's electrical
activity (brain waves) over a 24-hour period. It is
used to diagnose and monitor seizure activity or to
help evaluate brain tumors and other neurological conditions.
How to Prepare
When you schedule your 24-hour EEG, you
will be told whether the procedure will be performed
on an inpatient or outpatient basis. If it is to be
performed on an outpatient basis, please arrive at the
time and location given to you. You can expect to go
home within an hour or two after preparations for the
test are made. You'll need to return the next day for
follow up.
If you will be admitted to the hospital
for this procedure, please arrive at the time and location
given to you. You will be discharged from the hospital
the next day.
You will be asleep during much of this
test, so please bring sleep wear unless you would prefer
to wear a hospital gown.
The evening before or morning of your
appointment, wash and dry your hair, but do not apply
spray, oil, mousse, or cream.
You may eat and drink as usual and remain
active right up until the time of your 24-hour EEG.
What to Expect
You will be escorted to the EEG testing
area, where an EEG technologist will place eight to
10 small disks (electrodes) on your scalp with a glue-like
adhesive. These electrodes will be connected to a small,
lightweight cassette tape recorder that attaches to
a strap or belt around your shoulder or waist. This
equipment records your brain waves.
Set-up time for this test takes about
60 minutes and is painless. Afterward, you will either
be discharged or be taken to a hospital room. In either
case, you will need to relax and sleep for the next
24 hours. You'll be given a diary in which to record
all your activities, any abnormal sensations, or seizures
you may experience.
After the testing period is complete,
you will return to the EEG testing area, where an EEG
technologist will remove the electrodes and recording
equipment. You may resume your normal activities immediately.
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